Publications Details
Concepts to measure flux and temperature for external central receivers
Three concepts to measure incident flux (1) relative, real-time power measurement, (2) flux mapping and incident power measurement, and (3) real-time flux mapping) and two concepts to measure receiver surface temperatures low and high resolution temperature measurements) on an external central receiver are discussed along with the potential and shortcomings of these concepts to make the desired measurements and the uncertainties associated with the measurements caused by atmospheric and surface property variations. These concepts can aid in the operation and evaluation of the receiver and plant. Tests have shown that the incident flux distribution on a surface can be mapped out using a fixed, narrow white target and a CCD camera system by recording the images of the beam as it is passed over the target and by building a composite image. Tests with the infrared cameras have shown they are extremely valuable tools in determining temperature profiles during startup of the receiver and throughout operation. This paper describes each concept in detail along with the status of testing to determine the feasibility of these concepts.